17yo accused of terrifying break-in, stabbing, sex-assault

PROSECUTORS are still waiting for results of DNA tests performed on a 17-year-old boy accused of the sexual assault, stabbing, and attempted murder of a Lismore woman during a terrifying random home invasion in December.

The teenager, who cannot be named, was scheduled to appear via video link before Lismore Children's Court this morning but the matter was immediately adjourned on the request of police prosecutor Monique Batterson.

Police allege the teen was responsible for a home invasion in the early hours of Saturday December 20 in which a 43-year-old woman desperately tried to fend off a knife wielding assailant demanding money.

It's alleged the teen entered the home on Little Keen St about 4am when the woman was alone and asleep.

Armed with a knife, he allegedly threatened the woman and following a struggle she was sexually assaulted.

It's alleged he then demanded money and during a further struggle the woman was hit on the head with an unknown object.

When the woman screamed to alert neighbours, the assailant fled.

The woman was treated by paramedics for a stab wound to her back, as well as facial injuries and cuts to her hands and arms.

Following a major investigation by the State Crime Command's Sex Crimes Squad together with local detectives, the teen was arrested the following Wednesday at a Coraki address.

The 17-year-old stands accused of wounding with intent to murder, aggravated sexual assault, special aggravated commit indictable offence in dwelling and break out, and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

The matter returns to Lismore Children's Court for mention on April 17.